Building on these practical strategies for parent-teacher partnerships in secondary schools here we offer ten straightforward, actionable ways to kickstart positive communication with parents and carers. By implementing these ideas from the outset, you'll create a foundation of trust and open communication that will benefit students, parents and teachers throughout the year.
- Send a welcome email or letter. Before the term starts, reach out to parents with a friendly introduction. Include a brief bio, your teaching philosophy, and your preferred contact methods.
- Host a virtual meet-and-greet. Organise an online session where parents can 'drop in' to say hello. This is particularly useful for parents who might struggle to attend in-person events.
- Create a class newsletter. Start a monthly or fortnightly newsletter highlighting class activities, upcoming events, and student achievements. Use platforms like Sway or Canva to make it visually appealing.
- Establish 'office hours'. Set aside specific times each week when you're available for quick chats or calls with parents. This shows you're accessible and helps manage your time effectively.
- Use positive phone calls. Make it a goal to call a few parents each week with positive feedback about their child. This sets a constructive tone for future communications.
- Create a class digital board. Set up an online space where parents can share ideas, ask questions, and connect with each other. This fosters a sense of community.
- Offer a 'curriculum preview'. Provide a brief overview of what students will be learning each half-term. This helps parents feel involved and enables them to support learning at home.
- Implement a 'parent expert' programme. Invite parents to share their professional expertise or hobbies that relate to the curriculum. This could be through video messages or in-person visits.
- Start a 'Friday Reflection' email. End each week by sending a brief email highlighting a positive moment from the class and previewing the week ahead.
- Create a digital 'suggestion box'. Set up an anonymous Google Form where parents can share concerns, ideas, or feedback. This shows you value their input and are open to improvement.
Remember, consistency is key when implementing these strategies. Choose a few that resonate with your teaching style and school context and commit to them throughout the year. By taking these proactive steps, you'll be well on your way to fostering strong, positive relationships with parents and carers, ultimately benefiting your students' educational journey.
Useful resources
To help you put some of these ideas into action, we've created handy parent communication templates with ready-to-use forms and newsletter templates for classroom teachers and form tutors:
